Dear friend, DC Meetings Our office was blessed to host some of the most amazing people in our world. Some under tragic circumstances, some of joy, and all there to share their stories. When we met with Ohad Ben Ami and his wife, Raz, we weren’t prepared to hear what they both endured as former hostages of Hamas. But we were given hope as we witnessed their survival. On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists attacked Ohad and Raz’s home, first taking Ohad and then Raz. Raz was released after 54 days as part of the November 23 ceasefire deal. She spent the next year advocating for the release of her husband. After 491 days, he was released; deeply emaciated and starved. He spoke to us about the tunnels he was kept in with two meals consisting of light soup and a spoonful of cheese, no showers, and no medications. He lost 77 pounds in captivity. We also met with Ilay and Yeela David, whose brother Evvatar is still being held captive. Last February, he was forced to do a cruel Hamas propaganda video, showing him digging his own grave, and looking emaciated. We need to bring him and the other hostages home now. No excuses. | Our office was also blessed this week by a visit from the White Family, the Angels in Adoption Honorees for Nebraska’s 2nd District! Eliza White, daughter of Taylor and Kailah, started making homemade pillows with a note of encouragement attached. For each pillow sold, she donates to Boys Town’s Foster Family Services, offering comfort to children entering foster homes. This act of kindness inspired her parents to become licensed Boys Town parents, who embraced their new roles with a shared commitment. That commitment was tested one cold December morning when Kailah returned home with her children and foster son, River. A minor illness quickly escalated into a life-threatening emergency. Thanks to the CPR training provided by Boys Town, Kailah was able to act swiftly and save River’s life. It was a moment that underscored the importance of being prepared—and being united. In April 2024, River officially became part of the White family through adoption, surrounded by a courtroom full of supporters. Just months later, they welcomed Mystic, age four, into their family through adoption as well. Despite busy careers and raising three biological daughters, the Whites continue to foster through Boys Town. They prioritize building lasting connections for the children in their care, involving biological siblings and parents whenever possible. Their daughters are active participants in the family’s foster care journey, embracing each child with love and support. | On the Floor This week, I spoke on the floor about my support for the Baltic Security Initiative, which was passed by the House. https://x.com/RepDonBacon/status/1965892731278078196 I also spoke against Marjorie Taylor Greene’s amendment to strip funding for Ukraine’s defense because it is a national security interest. Her Amendment was soundly defeated 60-372-5 https://x.com/RepDonBacon/status/1965844448082014274 Final words for the week This is not the way I would like to end this newsletter, but I can’t ignore the senseless violence that happened this week when Charlie Kirk was murdered for expressing his first amendment rights and professing his faith. Our hearts and prayers are with Charlie’s wife, children, family and friends. He served on the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors with me and will be missed. Our country not only protects, but cherishes our freedom of speech, and political violence terribly undermines our Republic. The murderer not only killed Charlie, but he also attacked all of our freedom of speech. The murder suspect is now detained, and I hope he is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. | Rep. Don Bacon Member of Congress | Sign up for my newsletter to get updates on this issue and others! | Washington, DC Office
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